Old Dominion ends skid, beats George Mason 71-66

NORFOLK, Va. -- Aaron Bacote scored 20 points and sank five free throws in the final 7 seconds as Old Dominion fended off a second-half rally to beat George Mason 71-66 on Saturday night.

The Monarchs (6-9) were up 11 at halftime but some iffy free throw shooting late -- 3 of 8 at one point -- allowed George Mason to twice get within two points in the final 10 seconds. The Patriots (7-7) ended the game on a turnover and a missed 3-pointer. Old Dominion made only six baskets after halftime and went 28-46 at the line (18-35 second half) but it was enough to end a two-game skid and also beat George Mason for the first time in six games.